How to become a private investigator in Delaware
Delaware private investigators are licensed by the Delaware State Police, Professional Licensing Section (Board of Examiners of Private Investigators and Private Security Agencies). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed private investigator in Delaware, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a private investigator in Delaware?
- At least 21 years old
- No felony; no theft, drug or moral turpitude misdemeanor in the last 7 years
- No dishonorable military discharge
- Not a member or employee of a law enforcement agency
- Employed by a licensed Delaware private detective agency
Delaware private investigator license requirements
| State license | Yes. Delaware licenses individual private investigators, who must work for a licensed Delaware agency. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Delaware State Police, Professional Licensing Section (Board of Examiners of Private Investigators and Private Security Agencies) |
| License name | Private Investigator License (Identification Card) |
| Education or training | No outside training is required, per DSP. |
| License term | 5 years; expires on your birthdate. |
How much does it cost?
| Initial or renewal application (paid via IdentoGO) | $105.00 |
|---|---|
| Replacement card (lost/stolen) | $10.00 |
| Name or agency change card | $5.00 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a private investigator in Delaware
- Get hired by a licensed Delaware private detective agency
- Book IdentoGO fingerprinting with service code 27RVQ3 and pay the fee
- Email the PI Individual Application to [email protected]
- Receive your ID card by mail or pickup
- Renew every 5 years using the same process
Apply on the official Delaware site
How do you check a private investigator's license in Delaware?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Delaware State Police, Professional Licensing Section (Board of Examiners of Private Investigators and Private Security Agencies).
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.